Here & Now Anytime War is deadly. Why is Trump turning it into a meme?
Mar 17, 2026
Tina Monk, a researcher of online memetic warfare; Paul Scharre, a military tech and AI in warfare expert; Jon Finer, a former top national security advisor. They discuss Iran strikes and diplomatic fallout. They examine AI’s role in intelligence and targeting. They explore how memes are used as state information operations that can sanitize and gamify real violence.
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Targeted Strikes Show Tactical Success Not Strategic Victory
- U.S. and Israel have repeatedly penetrated Iran's intelligence to locate and strike leaders.
- Jon Finer says these tactical successes haven't produced strategic victory since Iran's regime remains intact and capable of threat.
Fractured Alliances Limit Support To Reopen Hormuz
- Trump's strained relations with allies reduce willingness to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz.
- Jon Finer notes the administration's earlier decision to deprioritize alliances makes allied support in this war unlikely.
War's Wide Economic Ripples Beyond Oil
- Global economy bears direct costs from the war: high oil, natural gas, and critical minerals disruption.
- Finer highlights impacts on oil, gas, helium, and fertilizer that constrain industry and raise prices worldwide.